Wladimir Klitschko rescued by Spanish coastguard after former heavyweight champion's yacht catches fire

The Ukrainian confirmed both himself and his guests on the luxury vessel were fine

Jack Rathborn
Tuesday 25 June 2019 11:30 BST
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Wladimir Klitschko rescued from burning yacht off coast of Mallorca

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Former world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko has been rescued from a burning yacht while on holiday in Mallorca.

The Ukrainian, who retired from the ring in 2017 after defeat to Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium, was rescued by the Spanish coastguard.

"Be careful what you wish for: fate took my wish for “some #adrenalin” a bit too literally," Klitschko wrote on Twitter. "And our boat trip Sunday night ended up in our boat igniting and family and friends being evacuated by coast guard and fire rescue team.

"No worries: we are all fine!"

The 43-year-old posted footage of himself being rescued out at sea.

A series of clips showed Klitschko and others being picked up by the Spanish coastguard before being dropped back on land.

Klitschko escaped the burning yacht (@Klitschko )
Klitschko escaped the burning yacht (@Klitschko ) (@Klitschko)

Klitschko previously encountered trouble on water when being chased by former world champion Shannon Briggs.

The American chased Klitschko in a boat while the Ukrainian was paddle boarding in 2014, causing him to fall off and into the water.

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